47.47: Arizona: Hot Springs on that 'cool' river, again.

Colorado River flows past with a view of the below-surface flora.

In the slot canyon, heading toward the hot springs.

End of the road.

There are two ways to reach the hot springs, a phenomenon in and of itself. On that day, we went through the slot canyon to the right, on a surface of soft sand which makes the going tough. The other way is more of a trail outside the canyon and along the mountains. Both routes arrive at the same place after negotiating a ladder from the one side or a slope on the other. Effectively, it's a loop or two different hikes should one go as they say in local parlance, 'Out and back'. The beauty of the left fork is it's a much nicer hike with terrific views. The right fork route through the slot most of the way makes it difficult to get lost. Sometimes that's a real boon...for you know who. Both have slots and they are truly magnificent. 

As we mentioned a few weeks back, it wasn't until Jenni matured and reached her 50's that we discovered the concept of the slot canyon and thereafter, so many other facets of nature. Ignorance is not such a wonderful thing unless one is dealing with the slots of Vegas. When we reached the river, the Colorado, once again it was a stunning sight. Imagine you're riding through the desert on a horse with no name or, maybe one with a name. You ride for miles and miles and all you see are mountains, scrub and sand. Should you be heading toward the destination we reached, only then will you discover the flow of water of this amazing river. Expressed another way, a person might walk for miles and be a mere few hundred yards to the side of the river and not realize the existence of water. Had we not been told the river meanders in that location, we would never have expected to find water. It boggles the mind.

When we reached the river, we noticed a couple and their dog. It turns out they were canoeing along the river and had stopped for breakfast and a rest. We engaged in conversation and as often occurs, we learned a little of their history and current activities. They were old people, we'd say about the same age as us, and perhaps a little out of shape. The man was a Vietnam Veteran while the woman would intimidate me much quicker than the soldier. Fortunately, Jenni was there to take care of me. We were both impressed and further motivated by their endeavors. While many people remain at home, there are a number of individuals out in the wilds attempting to accomplish their dreams, remain active, escape from a spouse or take on a challenge of nature. As to the latter, one can be a winner at times but rest assured, it's only temporary.

 

Jen takes the gap—sometimes, the cake, too.

At times, she's impressive—on other occasions, terrific.

Let's take in one more.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey